Roughly 95% of small businesses use at least one technology platform since technology usage is associated with an increase in sales, employment, and profits. However, companies that rely heavily on technology should consider implementing IT management. Let’s look at how IT management works and how you can implement it in your business.
What is IT management?
IT management is the monitoring and administration of a company’s information technology services. It focuses on how to make the entire system operate more effectively so employees have an easier time doing their jobs.
A company’s IT system refers to the network, hardware, and software and includes things like computers, servers, and mobile technology. Companies can choose to have the infrastructure hosted on-site, in the cloud, or to use a hybrid of both.
Individuals working in IT management are responsible for directing and overseeing the daily activities related to running the IT systems. This can include safety and compliance, providing technical support, or implementing new data systems.
IT management solutions
Here are the major functions of the IT department:
- Technical support: When most people think of the IT department, technical support is probably the first thing they think of. Technical support includes training employees on new software, setting up user accounts, and resetting passwords. It also involves troubleshooting technical issues and finding solutions. When problems do arise, the IT department is responsible for identifying the root cause and finding ways to prevent it from happening again in the future.
- Ongoing security: The IT department is responsible for keeping your network safe and working proactively to prevent data breaches. IT managers have to constantly evaluate who can access the system and be on the lookout to identify hackers.
- Managing infrastructure: IT management includes implementing and managing a company’s infrastructure. They monitor the hardware and software used to operate the company’s systems. And if there are any changes to the company’s infrastructure, the IT department monitors them to ensure they don’t negatively impact the business or its customers.
- Strategic investments: The IT department is also responsible for assessing the business’s needs and making strategic investments. For example, the IT department determines when it’s time to switch to different software or the technology needed to expand the business’s operations. They’re also responsible for monitoring the IT budget and determining what investments can lead to the greatest returns.
When most people think of the IT department, technical support is probably the first thing they think of.
Why IT management is important
As you begin integrating technology into your business processes, IT management ensures your company continues operating efficiently. For example, IT management can minimize work interruptions due to tech issues. If the system is down, the IT department can get things up and running again quickly.
And 48% of small businesses have experienced a cyber attack in the last year. In the United States, the average data breach costs $3.86 million, and the costs can be much higher when you consider the negative impact on your business’s reputation.
But IT management isn’t just about reacting to tech problems — it includes a strategic plan to support your business operations and identify new opportunities. It’s a strategic asset you can use to automate your business processes, save money, and generate more revenue in the future.
Small business IT service management considerations
If you’re considering adding an IT department, it’s important to assess your business needs first. Look at your current IT setup to determine where the gaps are. The size of your business and the complexity of your current systems will determine the IT services you need.
You should also consider your budget and how much you can realistically spend on IT management. Consider the long-term benefits this service could bring to your business, like reduced downtime and higher profits.
From there, you can begin researching potential providers with experience in your industry. Get quotes from several different providers, and for each one, consider the services they offer, their reputation, and the results they’ve delivered to other customers.
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